Effectively Facilitating Group Discussions

At ACET, we lead many focus groups, and we build capacity with our clients so they can successfully lead focus groups and build capacity of others to facilitate future conversations. Here are three quick tips:

1. Be engaging. Greet participants as they arrive. Introduce yourself. Create a warm, inclusive, inviting atmosphere.

2. Listen carefully. Be careful not to lead the conversation. Remain neutral. Probe. Allow conversation to move back and forth.

3. Circle back. Sometimes the conversation seems to end abruptly after participants answer the question. Therefore, circle back and summarize what you have heard. Ask for other comments and questions. Then share how the knowledge gained will be used.

Building rapport and valuing people’s feedback are critical for conducting an effective focus group. When people feel heard, they’re more likely to stay engaged and contribute more honestly to the conversation.

If you’re interested in having ACET facilitate a focus group or help you build capacity so you can lead focus groups, please contact us at info@acetinc.com. We offer a free initial consultation!